Mentorship Program

Photo by Bianca Ackermann

Urban Toronto Beekeepers’ Association Mentorship Program

The program includes several mentorship sessions throughout the beekeeping season, pairing an experienced UTBA mentor to new beekeepers seeking hands-on experience. Sessions take place either at the mentor’s apiary or the mentee’s hives.

This hands-on approach helps new beekeepers gain confidence, manage their own apiaries, and potentially become future mentors.

We have established mentor and mentee guidelines, which will evolve based on program experience.

Mentees are matched based on mentor availability. Please note this a free program aimed at helping the bee community in Toronto - mentors can expect to get free labour and mentees invaluable hands on knowledge with experience bee keepers.

Applications are now open for the Summer 2026 Season.

Become a MENTOR
Become a MENTEE

Any questions that are not addressed? Contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Just a reminder that this is a free program, and mentors are generously volunteering their time. Please be mindful and respectful of their schedules, come prepared for meetings, and communicate any changes or cancellations in advance. Make the most of their guidance by being engaged, open to feedback, and appreciative of their efforts.

All applications will be reviewed by the Mentorship Committee.

Applicants who are not UTBA members will not be accepted; however, you are more than welcome to apply for membership. We also hope you’ll take this opportunity to become an engaged and active part of the UTBA community.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It’s completely free! Our mentors generously volunteer their time to help foster a supportive community. Because this is a volunteer-based program, it may not have the same level of structure as paid mentorships. While we strive to keep things organized and running smoothly, there may be occasional challenges, such as varying availability of mentors and the flexibility needed to accommodate everyone’s schedules. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to create a meaningful and supportive experience for all participants.

  • No, a mentor can teach you in their apiary and get you ready and comfortable to manage your own hives. .

  • To get the most out of your mentorship training, you are strongly advised to learn as much as possible ahead of time. There are many online resources, courses, and books within the UTBA Website. Individual mentors may agree to take on a beekeeper with limited prior knowledge.

  • Please note that we receive more mentee applications than available mentor spots, so unfortunately, not everyone will be able to participate this season. However, if a spot becomes available, we will reach out.

    To ensure a smooth process, applicants who respond promptly will be given priority.

    For Mentors: The Mentorship Coordinator will contact you to discuss your availability, preferences, and gather additional information to help with the matching process.

    For Mentees: We will assess mentor availability and do our best to match you accordingly. The Mentorship Coordinator will reach out to understand your goals for the program and determine if we can accommodate your needs.

  • If you weren’t paired this time but still want to buzz around and get involved, there are plenty of ways:

    1. Be part of the monthly UTBA meetings, it is a great way to meet fellow beekeepers and lovers and is open to all UTBA members

    2. Join the Swarm List—if you're excited about chasing swarms, this is a perfect opportunity for you.

    3. Check out our awesome Resource page to get more information.